Broadleaf Trees

What are broadleaf trees?

Broadleaf trees belong to the flowering plants (Magnoliophyta), whose seeds develop inside a fruit. They have flat, veined leaf blades, and in our temperate zone most of them shed their leaves in winter. Exceptions include evergreen species such as the strawberry tree (Arbutus) from the Mediterranean or holly (Ilex), which is grown here in gardens.

• They are mostly dicotyledonous woody plants; monocot trees (e.g. palms) do not grow wild in the Czech Republic.
• Leaves are flat, either simple or compound, and usually deciduous.
• Flowers are pollinated by insects or by wind, and fruits take the form of achenes, nuts, berries or pomes.
• Broadleaf wood (known as hardwood) is usually denser and stronger than conifer wood.

Overview of broadleaf trees growing in the Czech Republic

Classified according to current botanical systematics (APG IV). The list includes genera that grow wild in the Czech Republic.

Fagales

• Beech family (Fagaceae): beech (Fagus), oak (Quercus), sweet chestnut (Castanea)
• Birch family (Betulaceae): birch (Betula), alder (Alnus), hornbeam (Carpinus), hazel (Corylus)

Rosales

• Elm family (Ulmaceae): elm (Ulmus)
• Rose family (Rosaceae): rowan and whitebeam (Sorbus)

Sapindales

• Soapberry family (Sapindaceae): maple (Acer) – formerly placed in its own family, Aceraceae

Malvales

• Mallow family (Malvaceae): lime (linden) (Tilia) – formerly its own family, Tiliaceae

Malpighiales

• Willow family (Salicaceae): poplar (Populus), willow (Salix)

Note: this overview does not cover every tree growing in the Czech Republic; we are gradually expanding it.